Certification Of Non-Oil Export Academy Graduates

Sterling Bank Partners Pan Atlantic University’s Enterprise Development Centre

Longstanding financial institution Sterling Bank Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Enterprise Development Centre(EDC) of the Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) to certify graduates of its Non-Oil Export Academy. 

This strategic partnership underscores the Bank's commitment to diversifying Nigeria's economy by supporting non-oil export growth. 

The landmark agreement follows the recent launch of the Sterling Bank Non-Oil Export Academy; an initiative designed to position Nigerian exporters for global competitiveness. 

The launch was preceded by a series of nationwide training programs in Lagos, Ondo, and Kano states, culminating in a grand finale themed “Excel in Non-Oil Export.” 

This partnership is aimed at equipping exporters with practical tools to thrive in international markets, thereby reducing Nigeria’s reliance on oil revenues. 

Speaking at the signing of the MoU ceremony in Lagos, Sterling Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, affirmed that the Bank is intentional about creating an ecosystem where non-oil exporters are well-informed and equipped to advance national interests. 

“We are not just training people to understand how to export; we want to train them to be competitive exporters of non-oil products,”. 

“Our goal is to build a community of knowledgeable, certified, and confident exporters who can collaborate to solve challenges beyond their immediate capacity. Our North Star is to reach a point where hundreds of people have completed this programme and are ready to compete on a global scale.” 

L-R: Kola Oluyemi, Group Head, Sterling Academy; Dr. Nneka Okekearu, Director, Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan Atlantic University (PAU); Abubakar Suleiman, MD/CEO, Sterling Bank; Dr. Nnenna Ugwu, Head, Alumni Engagement and Support Services, EDC at PAU; and Akporee Idenedo, Divisional Head, Commercial Banking, Sterling Bank at the recent MoU signing to certify graduates of Sterling Bank’s Non-Oil Export Academy.

Dr. Nneka Okekearu, Director of the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “Having spent the last twenty-three years deepening the competencies of entrepreneurs, we thoroughly understand what is needed and are excited to be part of this initiative,”.

Dr. Okekearu emphasized that the export market has been neglected for too long.

Beyond sectoral outcomes, the initiative reinforces Sterling Bank’s commitment to support the development of human capital that positively shapes and impacts the wider economy. 

The Academy which commences in 2026 will run four cohorts within the year. 

With the partnership, Sterling Bank and the Enterprise Development Centre are laying the foundation for a new generation of globally competitive Nigerian exporters, professionals equipped not only with knowledge but with the certification, confidence and networks needed to scale. 

As both institutions align their expertise to strengthen non-oil export capacity, the collaboration signals a bold step towards a more resilient, inclusive and diversified economy. 

Hence the Non-Oil Export Academy serves as a catalyst for national transformation, empowering businesses and communities to unlock Nigeria’s full potential on the world stage.